The Italian Army has received its first SAMP/T NG and GRIFO air defense systems, as part of a national air defense modernization program launched in 2021.
According to the Ukrainian portal Militarnyi, the Italian Ministry of Defense shared that the handover ceremony included a brief demonstration simulation of the new equipment.
The SAMP/T NG (New Generation) air defense system is manufactured by the EUROSAM joint venture, which includes MBDA Italy, MBDA France, and THALES.
The platform was developed to replace previous SAMP/T variants and introduces enhanced interception and detection capabilities designed to counter advanced aerial threats, including ballistic missiles.
The new SAMP/T NG uses the Aster B1NT interceptor missile, which reportedly has an engagement range exceeding 150 kilometers, along with Leonardo’s high-power Kronos Grand Mobile radar, offering 360° coverage and designed to detect targets at distances beyond 350 kilometers.
Alongside the SAMP/T NG, the Italian Army also received the GRIFO system, a short-range air defense platform belonging to the SHORAD class. The GRIFO is part of MBDA’s air defense family and uses the CAMM ER interceptor missile, designed for rapid reaction against low-altitude and maneuvering targets.
In this configuration, the GRIFO uses the PCMI command and control module developed and manufactured by Leonardo. The system employs the X-TAR 3D radar produced by Rheinmetall Italy, which provides detection and tracking of aerial threats at short and medium ranges.
The Italian Army plans to field a total of six SAMP/T NG batteries and nine GRIFO systems under the current procurement program. The move comes as European countries remain concerned about airspace defense, given the heavy use of drones observed in recent conflicts.
Italy’s proposed modernization aligns with NATO efforts to strengthen integrated air and missile defense on the southern and eastern flanks of allied nations.
Photo: Italian Ministry of Defense. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
